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Vance Meets Modi Amid India's Tariff Relief Push
Monday April 21, 2025 3:25 PM
US Vice President JD Vance has arrived in New Delhi for high level discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as both nations seek to fast track a long awaited bilateral trade deal. The visit comes amid heightened global trade tensions following Washington's recent tariff policies.
Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha and their children, began his trip with a visit to the Akshardham temple complex in Delhi. Later in the day, he is scheduled to hold formal talks with Modi, followed by a dinner hosted by the Indian prime minister. The discussions are expected to cover trade relations and broader geopolitical issues of mutual concern.
The visit takes place against the backdrop of escalating trade disputes between the US and several nations. Earlier this year, US President Donald Trump imposed steep reciprocal tariffs, including a 27% levy on Indian goods, before temporarily pausing the measure on April 9. The 90day suspension is set to expire on July 9, prompting countries worldwide to accelerate trade negotiations.
India has already reduced tariffs on select US products, but further concessions are anticipated, given the significant trade imbalance favoring New Delhi. India currently enjoys a $45 billion trade surplus with the US, with average tariffs at around 12%, compared to America's 2%. Until recently, the US was India's largest trading partner, with bilateral commerce reaching $190 billion.
During Modi's previous meeting with Trump, both leaders outlined ambitious plans to expand trade to $500 billion, with India committing to increased imports of American oil and gas. Vance's visit is seen as a continuation of efforts to strengthen economic ties ahead of Trump's potential trip to India later this year for the Quad summit, which includes leaders from Australia and Japan.
Indian officials have expressed optimism about the visit. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that New Delhi is confident the talks will further bolster bilateral relations. Following his engagements in the capital, Vance and his family are expected to tour the historic cities of Agra and Jaipur.
The outcome of these discussions could play a pivotal role in shaping future trade dynamics between the two nations, particularly as global markets brace for potential shifts in US trade policy.
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